The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a firm directive prohibiting the arbitrary arrest, detention, and phone searches of youths by police officers nationwide.

He warned that officers found guilty, along with their supervisors, would face severe disciplinary action.

The directive, communicated via a wireless message dated December 13, 2024, was sent to all state police commands. It stressed the urgent need to address human rights violations and unlawful practices that have damaged the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force.

The police leadership expressed concern that such misconduct could reignite public anger, referencing the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which escalated into widespread violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property.

The message, signed by the Department of Operations at the Force Headquarters and obtained by PidomNigeria, holds police commissioners and command supervisors accountable for any breaches under their supervision.

Titled “Order and Directives: Arbitrary Arrest and Detention”, the message (DTO: 111996/ and Ref: CB:0900/DOPS/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.TIO/157) emphasized:
“Arbitrary arrests, detention, and the collection or checking of phones at checkpoints must cease immediately. Such actions tarnish the reputation of the Nigeria Police Force and contributed to the #EndSARS protests, destruction of property, and loss of lives in the past. Any officer caught engaging in these unlawful practices, along with their command supervisors, will face strict discipline. Monitoring units will be deployed to ensure compliance. Treat as very important.”

This directive reinforces the Inspector-General’s commitment to reforming the police force and preventing a repeat of the unrest witnessed during the #EndSARS protests.